Volume XXXIII December 1992 Number 12
A Reflection
Where shall man find peace, happiness and security in this life? "There is nothing better for a man,than that he should eat and drink, and that he shouldmake his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw,that it was from the hand of God" (Eccl. 2: 24).
Our years are as a tale told (Psalm 90: 9), as ashadow (Eccl. 6: 12), as a dream (Job 20: 8), as the grass that fades away (Psalm 103: 15, 16; 1 Peter 1:24) and as vapor that vanishes after a little while(James 4: 14). This reality every person must encounter sooner or later.
Brother Adams asked me to write a brief historic review of my work with Searching The Scriptures, thepurpose toward which we labored and the policy thatgoverned the editorial work. Many things will have toremain unsaid because of the limitation of space. I amhappy to record some of the highlights in the historyof this paper as they appear to me.
With sadness and nostalgic reflection I begin towrite what is to be my final article for Searching The Scriptures. Recollections of the early history of thisjournal and those associated with it stir my emotionsto gratitude and to some measure of melancholy as Iappraise the opportunities the grace of God has grantedto us.
When the first issue of Searching The Scriptureswas published on January, 1960, 1 did not think about how long it would live. That never entered mymind. I was concerned about how effective it would be in
accomplishing the goal James P. Miller and I had forthis effort.
"Now In The Very Beginning... "
Those who knew James P. Miller and heard him preach will remember the above phrase. It was hisusual beginning of his sermon. The history of Searching The Scriptures cannot be told without includingJames P. Miller. His work, advice and encouragement were invaluable from the beginning. A more detailedaccount of our relationship is found in Searching The Scriptures, March 1978, Page 41. Jim Miller gave hisappraisal of our relationship in his editorial of May,1967, pages 257, 258.
The Florida Newsletter in 1958, which became theSoutheastern Newsletter in 1959, was the beginningof Searching The Scriptures. (More details about thisin STS, May, 1973, pages 259, 260). I was grateful toGod for this medium through which His word could betaught. My interest in and love for the paper havecontinued throughout its existence. The experience aseditor has taught me lessons that I shall remember allof my life.
When a man puts his mind in print and sends it outinto the world, it lives for many generations; it cannotbe retrieved. It is like throwing a basket of feathersinto a wind storm; you will never gather all thefeathers together again. A man should make sure hisheart is right with God, his motives are pure and hiswords are carefully chosen to speak only the truth ofGod's word.
In the editorial of April, 1960 issue we said: "When one takes his pen in hand, as we usually express it, towrite something for the present and future generations, he should fully realize that he is about to declarewhat kind of man he is and what his ambitions and goals are. This fact alone should make one approachthe task with a clear mind and a careful expression. Somany writers, as well as speakers, express themselveswithout first taking into account the results of theirstatements: the good or evil that will follow. " I havealways been more concerned about what God reads ofmy heart and attitude than what men will say.
Honor To Whom Honor
We received much opposition, some even antagonistic and baleful, but there were also many good men
and women: preachers, elders and deacons, their wivesand faithful brethren who gave encouragement andhelp in many ways during those early days. Some ofthose good people have since laid aside the armor andanswered the final call to close the earthly sojourn hereand enter into their rest (Rev. 14: 13). Among them isthe beloved James P. Miller who stood with me from the beginning.
I am so grateful to so many for so much. We owe aninexpressible debt of gratitude to those staff writerswho came aboard in the following years, and to all who contributed articles from time to time. Thank you foryour important contribution.
The pressures of editing a religious paper affect theeditor's family. Members of my family have been supportive from the beginning. To Polly, my faithful wifeof more than 57 years who supported me in my workwith the paper from the beginning; to my three daughters and their husbands; to my mother and four brothers; to my grandchildren and their husbands/wives, Iowe a debt of gratitude. To many faithful brethrenacross the country, I express to you my sincere thanksfor your personal interest, support, and encouragement. "I thank my God upon every remembrance ofyou" (Phil. 1: 3).
I had no thought of ever disposing of Searching TheScriptures. Early in 1972 some health problems broughtthe entreaty of my family, my doctor, friends and concerned brethren to pass this work to another. It finally became obvious to me that I could not continue the load of work I was doing.
In the early spring of 1973 Connie Adams and Icompleted the agreement for the transfer of SearchingThe Scriptures to him. With the June, 1973 issue the paper passed from my hand to his. During the transition we spent several hours together in fervent prayerswith tears as we contemplated the wonderful opportunity and enormous responsibility we were sharing atthe changing of the guard.
In the final editorial before relinquishing the editorial duties to brother Adams, I said: "Somewhere around 1963 to 1965, during the Lecture Week at Florida College late one night, I drove Connie Adams to theplace where he was staying after the last lecture thatnight. We spent almost an hour talking about Searching The Scriptures and its future, and the need for some continuing force to fight the invading evils ofinstitutionalism and liberalism. It was on this night and under these circumstances that Connie W. Adams asked me to give him first opportunity to buy Searching The Scriptures if I ever sold it. At the time I had not thought of ever selling it. However, I gave him myword that I would contact him first under such circumstances, and through the years our verbal agreementhas been honored by both of us" (Searching The Scriptures, May, 1973, page 261).
My intention was to allow this paper to cease and tobury it with honor and dignity. This decision would have eliminated the possibility of its reputation to beused by any other to propagate error. I found in Connie
(Continued on page 279)
Putting To Rest A Labor Of Love
In May, 1973 Ed Byers and I brought the physicalproperties of SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES to Louisville in a U-Haul trailer. As we pulled out of the driveway of the residence of H. E. Phillips, both he and hisdear wife, Polly, stood in the doorway weeping. We wereboth too choked with emotion to say anything for a longtime. I wondered then how I would feel if I were bidding farewell to what had become such a vital part of his life.And now I know! As I write this last editorial for this paper, which ends thirty-three years of service to ourreaders, my mind is filled with memories and my heart is full to overflowing.
The Beginning
H. E. Phillips has given a history of this paper from its inception. My own involvement with it began with a gentlemen's agreement sometime in the mid-1960's when H. E. Phillips promised me that should it becomenecessary for him to give up his work on the paper, Iwould be given the opportunity to continue that work.The time came sooner than either of us expected. Aftermajor health problems brought pressure upon him fromhis doctors and family, he called me during the Florida College lectures in January, 1973. I went to his house where I found him struggling with the flu. He told me hecould not go on with the paper and asked if I would takeit and publish it. Over the years he had borrowed fromhis insurance to pay printing bills and that had accumulated to just under $10, 000. We made arrangements to retire that amount over the first three years of our ownership of the paper. That freedhis insurance. That was just one sample of the manysacrifices the Phillipses made in publishing this paper.
It was not the best time for us to begin this work. Wehad agreed to go with a new work which was a peaceful "swarm" from the Manslick Road church in Louisville and we had to borrow money to build a house. At first itseemed impossible to do all that and take on the work ofthe paper. But my wife encouraged me to do it andoffered to help in every way she could. She gave up herteaching job and took on the business operation of the paper.
With her faithful help and the continued work of thebrethren who were writing, plus the support of readerswe were able to keep it going.
In the May, 1973 issue, I wrote the following:
'Those of us who write shall attempt to be clear,concise, candid and always scriptural. When differencesarise, as surely they will, we will do our best to practicethe Golden Rule. The editor does not expect to agreewith every sentiment expressed by every writer onevery subject. Each one bears responsibility for what hesays. Divergent views will be given a hearing whenoffered in proper form and in good taste. We shall reserve the right to decide when enough has been saidon a subject and to choose what is thought to be the mostrepresentative material on a topic on which several have offered articles. We are aware that our writingsconstitute a part of our preaching and that we shall becalled to account for what we teach. Our highest ambition is to please God. We do not expect everybody to likeeverything we have to say and sincerely hope that theDevil and all his angels will be sorely displeased. "
At the close of that article we quoted the followingfrom Ben Franklin as he began editing THE CHRISTIAN REVIEW: " This work is fully under our owncontrol, and if it does not proceed with regularity,firmness and stability, the responsibility is OURS. "
With Sincere Gratitude
We owe a debt of gratitude to so many people. First,the writers who have contributed so generously of theirtime and knowledge to benefit our readers deserve a special word of thanks. Over the years, several writershave left to publish papers of their own. Special noticeis given to the 25 years of service from Marshall E. Patton who during that span of time wrote our questioncolumn, Answers For Our Hope. The first twenty yearsof that column are now in a hardback book by that sametitle. It is a storehouse of rich help for Bible students and will remain a valuable tool as the years go by.
This work could not have been done without the patience and loving help of my family. The businesswork of the paper was ably handled by my wife, Bobbie,until about two weeks before her death in March, 1985.Our Wilson and Martin deserve a special word of appreciation. They helped in many ways to collate boundvolumes, sort for mailing and other mundane chores.Wilson handled the news column for awhile and contributed many articles. Beyond that they endured the manydemands on my time which often kept me from doingthings with them. I do not recall ever hearing themcomplain, but I am sure there were times when theywere tempted to view the paper as a rival for theirfather's time and attention.
We have been blessed with good office personnel. FayKing and Nola Snell helped in the early days. JoanRader (and Donnie) came to our rescue when it became evident that Bobbie's time was growing short. Withoutthem, we could not have kept the paper on schedule.When I married Bobby Hughes in March, 1986, shehandled the business office until Jane Ashbrook came to work for us. This freed Bobby's time so she could travel with me in gospel meetings. Jane worked faithfully withus until after her father, A. C. Grider, died and thenresigned to help take care of her mother. Karen Arbuckle then came to work for us and continues through this final issue. Her work has been diligent and efficient.
From the beginning of our ownership of the paper,RELIGIOUS SUPPLY CENTER of Louisville has advertised in the paper. Our relationship with David Keyand all those who work at the bookstore has been most pleasant. Their advertising with us enlarged their business and provided us with needed funds to keep thepaper going. They are a major supply house for books,tracts, and general church supplies.
Through the years, H. E. Phillips has been a loyalfriend and trusted adviser. He has never tried to second-guess me but has always been ready to listen and offercounsel when I have called upon him, and that has beenoften. It has been an honor to have his material on the front page of the paper. I am thankful that the relief hegained from turning over the paper to me has lengthened his days of faithful service to the Lord. Among myfondest memories are moments HE. Phillips and I haveprayed together. There was the time when we met inAtlanta to finalize the business transactions of the paper. Then in a private corner at Kennedy Airport inNew York before boarding a plane to Italy in 1976 topreach among brethren there, we besought the Lord forhis protection over us and our families left behind. Hisprayer at the funeral home the day Bobbie was laid torest helped give me strength for that day. Again, weprayed together when I met with him to seek his adviceabout laying this paper to rest and accepting the offer towrite and work with the GUARDIAN OF TRUTH. Our association has been long and pleasant, but those moments were the most poignant of all.
Where do I begin to express my love and gratitude toDonnie V. Rader? Over the last few years he has cometo my aid countless times. He had edited the paperthrough the summer for the last three years, includingthe special issues which enjoyed a wide circulation andbrought forth so many words of appreciation from those into whose hands they have fallen. Then when backsurgery hampered me again, Donnie extended his editorial work until the first of this year. He has continuedthrough this year to do all the paste-up work. We haveconsulted many times about many things. He is anexcellent preacher of the gospel, deeply committed tothe truth and possessed of a considerate spirit whichmakes him all the more helpful to his hearers. Thekingdom needs many more like him. He is like a son tome. The readers of this paper need to understand that without the faithful help of this good brother, we could not have met our schedule and would have found it necessary to close the paper much sooner. Donnie, keepyou pen sharp, and continue to use your talent in bothpreaching and writing.
I am indebted to Bobby for her quiet support of all mywork, including this paper. She is a devout Christian and a wise counselor whose input has been invaluablein all my work, including the editorship of SEARCHINGTHE SCRIPTURES. She has had a keen sense of the importance of this work.
Thanks are in order to Mike Willis and all those connected with GUARDIAN OF TRUTH for their generosity in satisfying the unfulfilled subscriptions with their excellent magazine and for working so thoughtfully and carefully in making this transition. The opportunity to write again in that magazine is appreciated and it is hoped that our readers will want tofollow what we have to offer through that medium.
Looking Back
It is difficult to assess objectively what has beenaccomplished through this periodical. I am convincedthat it played a significant role in the second wave of theconflict over the nature, organization and work of thechurch. Many are standing for the truth today becauseof these efforts. Others were encouraged who had endured much suffering in the jarring conflicts surrounding those issues.
But what of the last nineteen and a half years? Wehave tried to teach truth and oppose error on thosequestions while addressing a wide range of subject matter which, in our judgment, was needed by ourreaders. We have striven for balance. Every monthwhen the paste-up was done, we have gone through thepaper one more time to see how many different subjectswere touched in that one issue. We have had our share of controversy. Some blunders in judgment have beenmade. But we have honestly tried to do what appearedat the time to be the wisest course of action. It has been impossible to please everyone and no attempt has beenmade to do that.
Over the years we have heard from many readerswho have written, called or spoken to us during our travels to preach who have thanked us for our work and told us of something we printed which was especiallyhelpful to them. We have received many letters fromother countries from preachers who told us they haveused many articles from SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES for sermon and class material. Our writers have heard from so many readers over the years. In 1975 inthe Philippines I met two different men who told me that they had been denominational preachers and that theybegan learning the truth which led to their conversionfrom a copy of a special issue we did on "An UnchangingKingdom in a Changing World. "
If we have helped one soul to learn the truth and obeythe gospel, if we have strengthened one Christian, if wehave stabilized one soul on the brink of apostasy, if wehave lifted up one despondent spirit, if we have illuminated one Bible student on some difficult passage, if wehave promoted greater zeal and interest in the work ofthe gospel around the world, then these 33 years havenot been in vain.
So then, with a heart filled with emotions, and withgentle hands, we commit SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES to the archives of history. "And now brethren, Icommend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified" (Acts 20: 32). "Thegrace of our Lord Jesus Christ, be with you all. Amen(Rev. 22: 21).
Bound Volume 33
This final year of SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURESwill be bound to match all previous bound volumes.GUARDIAN OF TRUTH has agreed to have this bound and offered for sale to all those who desire a copy. Thiswill probably be ready by sometime in February. Youmay contact GUARDIAN OF TRUTH BOOKSTORE, P.
O. Box 9670, Bowling Green, KY 42102.***********
A Reminder To All Subscribers
As we pointed out in last month's paper, all unfulfilledsubscriptions to SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES willbe filled by GUARDIAN OF TRUTH on a one-for-oneand-a-half basis. GUARDIAN OF TRUTH is printedtwice a month and contains 32 pages per issue. If you are still due six issues of STS you will receive 9 issues ofGOT. Then when your subscription has expired, weurge all readers to renew with GUARDIAN OF TRUTH.
**********
Thanks To EP Graphics
EP GRAPHICS (formerly ECONOMY PRINTING CONCERN) of Berne, Indiana has printed SEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES from the time I became the owner and editor. We not only appreciate their work,but also the quality people who make up this business.They have become more like family than mere businesspeople. We have found the management and personnelof this large printing concern to be among the mosthonest and dedicated people we have met. Thanks, folks.
Searching The Scriptures AnOverview
During the Florida College lectures in February,Connie called me to his motel room to tell me about the offer that the Guardian of Truth Foundation had made to buy Searching the Scriptures and put it to rest. I wassurprised at first, but saw rather quickly that this wouldremove part of Connie's pressing work load. Though hehad not decided whether to accept their offer or not, Iknew that's what he would do.
Since that day I have thought many times about the paper, its beginning, its reputation, its editors, itswriters, its policy, it accomplishments and those whohave worked behind the scenes. In this final issue of STS I want to share with you some of those things that come tomind when I think about Searching the Scriptures.
H. E. Phillips
Launching a major journal is no easy task. Anyonecan start a paper, but its another thing to get one off theground and keep it going for many years. It takes a lotof work, a lot of time, a lot of wisdom and a lot of money.
H. E. Phillips gave all of that and more to starting andpublishing Searching the Scriptures from 1960 until 1973.
He and James P. Miller worked as co-editors in the early years of the paper. Someone rightfully gave Millerthe title of "Mr. Outside" and Phillips the name "Mr.Inside. " Brother Miller worked among the brethrenacross the country to help build and circulate the paperwhile brother Phillips did the desk work of writing,editing, proofing and putting the paper together.
H. E. Phillips sacrificed much for this paper. He spentmany hours behind the typewriter or at the desk - all inaddition to his local work. He worked until late in the night after spending a full day doing his local work. Hehas told me that there were many nights he would workall night long and then get a shower, eat breakfast andgo at it again. Many readers may not realize that hestarted a bookstore, a tape business and produced theLiving Voice Bible tapes (he directed the recording ofthe entire New Testament by a Shakespearean actor)allin an effort to have money to keep Searching The Scriptures going. He borrowed money (at times against his life insurance policy) to keep STS in the hands of his readers. Many of the readers in the early years of the paper received the paper because brother Phillips waspaying for it himself. Not only that, but he sacrificed hishealth. After two heart attacks(1967 & 1971) hisdoctors and family urged that he reduce his workload.
Under the editorship of H. E. Phillips this paperenjoyed a large circulation, a good reputation and wasrespected as a paper that was set for the defense of thegospel.
Since the day he turned this work over to Connie W.Adams, he has faithfully contributed articles for practically every issue.
H. E. Phillips has been a friend and encouragementto many preachers, particularly young preachers, including this writer.
Thanks, brother Phillips. Without you thousands ofreaders would not have enjoyed Searching the Scriptures every month.
Connie W. Adams
Connie W. Adams became editor and owner of Searching the Scriptures in May 1973. He had carried thepaper on the same steady path on which James P. Miller and H. E. Phillips placed it.
On numerous occasions Connie has expressed to mehis view of what the paper was to him. He viewed it asa mere extension of his influence. He stated this in the May 1973 issue. "Then why do it? Every preacher wantsto influence as many souls for good as he possibly can inhis lifetime. Writing through such a medium as thisaffords such opportunity not only to teach truth now,but to put it in permanent form so that it may chance tohave effect on generations to come.... This work is viewed as an opportunity to advance truth, as a challenge and as a fearful responsibility. " Connie has never thought of this work as being a spokesman for the brotherhood. He never has viewed his editor's chair as a lofty throne. In fact, having worked closelywith him for a while, I know the editor's chair is anything but that. At times it is a real hot seat.
Connie has sacrificed much as well. Other than his family, I have seen as much as any one what Connie hasgiven to this paper. He has edited the paper longer thanbrother Phillips did. For nearly 20 years he has met two deadlines a month. First he had his editorial and news column to write and proof all the articles for the nextmonth's issue by the first of the previous month. Thenon the fifteenth of the month he received the typeset galleys from the printing plant and had a "paste-up" todo and then proofread the paste-up. All of that is justgetting the paper in the mail. Daily there are incomingrenewals that have to be posted in the books. Though hehired someone to do his office work on the paper he had the responsibility of overseeing that the bills weremailed by the 20th and the mailing list updated by the25th of each month. Besides all of that, an editorreceives a ton of mail. (I know -1 have picked his mail upwhen he was out of town. )
In addition to all of the time he has put into the paper,he has worked hard keeping the paper operating on abusiness basis. He, like brother Phillips, has sacrificedhis health in the process. When he first got the paper he had it printed in Berne, Indiana which is about a four tofive hour drive from Louisville. He would drive there every month to pick the papers up and brought themhome to address and mail them. Hauling and liftingboxes upon boxes of paper wore out his station wagon,but worse, it wore out his back. In recent years he hashad back surgery twice. He believes his problems goback to lifting all those papers.
I first met Connie in 1980 shortly after I moved toLouisville to work with the Manslick Road congregation. We soon developed a warm friendship. We havemuch in common. Our views on many questions andissues of the day are much alike. How we approachedthings are very similar. Besides our common love for the Lord and his word, we have a common interest injournalism and particularly Searching The Scriptures.Yet, there are many things that we don't have in common: He likes basketball (a diehard Kentucky fan); I don't care for sports at all. He can play a guitar ormandolin; I can't play anything. Children make himnervous; they don't bother me. I can do a few handy-man things; he can't drive a nail. But, we still have a lot in common.
When Bobbie (Connie's first wife) got sick, Joan (mywife) and I offered to help with the paper if needed.Within a week or two of that offer, Connie had put Joanto work. This began what has continued to be a closeworking relationship on the paper.
In December 1985 Connie came back to work with us at Manslick Road. While I did the local work, he taughtspecial classes during December, January, and February. From March to November he was in full-time meeting work. We had an excellent working relationship. We never had a cross word one time. Some preachers may have trouble working together, but we neverdid. Having him in the audience was never an occasionfor criticism. He always encouraged. He has an abilityto deal with younger men as equals -at least he did withme. I learned much and still do from our association and friendship. When I left Manslick Road, I summed up ourrelationship by saying, "He is my Paul, and I am hisTimothy. "
I love Connie dearly and rejoice to know that his workload will be lighter. Connie is a "work-horse" who needsto slow down a little. If he did not, his usefulness in the kingdom would be shortened. May God bless you Conniewith many more years of effectiveness in his service.
The Policy Of The Paper
The policy of the paper is one reason it has been wellrespected. Though there has been no written policy, it has been to be fair and teach the truth found in the Bible. Three things come to mind about the paper's policy. (1) Balance. There has been a good balance of milk andmeat, positive and negative, controversial and noncontroversial and reproof and exhortation. The paper has never been top-heavy with one subject. It has never run any subject or issue in the ground. (2) Fair. While no topic has been ridden until it was wore out, theeditors have given every topic and issue a fair hearing.There has been no closed-door policy that would notallow a response. (3) Exchanges had a limit. Exchanges and debates have been allowed in these pages. However,there was always a limit to how many articles there would be. The exchanges did not continue until thereaders became weary.
The Paper's Reputation
Some papers develop an ugly name and carry a bad smell about them. But, not Searching the Scriptures. It has not been a one-issue paper. Personal axes have notbeen ground. It has been held as a paper of respect and dignity. I believe it was Jeff Kingry who told Connie afew years ago that if he had to draw a caricature ofSearching the Scriptures he would put a coat and tie onit. That suggests dignity and honor. That kind of reputation makes me proud to be a part of the paper.
The Good It Has Done
Literally thousands have been taught and edified.Many have been led out of institutionalism. One suchexample is Mike Baggett of Water Valley, MS. He wasworking with a liberal congregation. One of the members was receiving STS and passing the copies on toMike. It was here that Mike was challenged to thinkabout the doctrines and practices of liberal churches. Hethen studied his way out and took his stand. The goodreaches far beyond the United States. Brethren in Italyand in the Philippines have been helped more than mostreaders realize. Every major issue to arise among brethren since 1960 has been addressed in these pages.
Those Who Have Worked Behind The Scenes
The readers of any paper do not see what all it takesto get a paper in the mail and keep it going. Connie hasnot been able to do all this himself. Several have worked hard keeping the mailing list updated, keeping billspaid and mailing the monthly statements. There is a lotmore to it than might appear. Bobbie Adams did all of this before STS had a computer, before the printingplant did the mailing and when every bill had to be typed individually. Then Joan Rader worked for a while after Bobbie's death doing the same work the same way. ThenBobby Adams helped get all the bills and mailing list oncomputer and has done a lot of work on the paper inaddition to those Connie has hired. When Joan had to quit, Jane Ashbrook (wife of Lee Ashbrook, an elder atManslick Rd. and daughter of the late A. C. Grider)worked a few years. After Jane quit to help see to hermother, Karen Arbuckle has carried the load until now.
Without the work of these godly ladies, you would nothave received your copy of STS every month.
I am saddened to see STS come to an end. But, thateventually happens to papers. As the years go on otherswill start and cease as well. For the time, we give ourhonor to this paper it's editors for a job well done.
Dear Dad:
I just want you to know that the assignment you havegiven me is one of the toughest I have ever undertaken(although I imagine that everyone else writing in thisfinal issue shares those same sentiments). It's hard to be objective when you're so emotionally involved. I'll do my best.
Before I say anything else I want to express mydeepest appreciation for your confidence in me withregard to the Paper; a confidence that was expressedearly on. While other kids were getting their first jobsflipping burgers or bagging groceries, I was a part-timeemployee of a religious journal. It was back in the darkages (before computers) that Mom and I would address,bag and mail the paper out of that little hole-in-the-walloffice complex you rented next to the Beauty Shop inwhat was (and still is) the largest strip mall in Brooks,Kentucky (which isn't saying a whole lot!) And thenthere were all the trips we made together to NorthernIndiana to pick up the Paper. Hey, remember the timemy tennis shoes got too close to the heat vent on that old VW and we kept smelling smoke? That was on one ofthose trips.... We had a lot of laughs, good talks and great times. In its own way, Searching The Scripturesprovided us with some quality and quantity family time.Thanks for the memories.
In April 19801 took on the job of compiling and editingthe news column. It was then I learned the fine art of condensation (which is another way of saying I took ared pen to a lot of excess verbiage). That lasted until January of 1984 when, because of time restraints, Iasked to be relieved.
Most of all I've appreciated the opportunity to writeand express my thoughts to a larger audience thanotherwise would have been possible. It's been an honor,Dad, and I want you to know that. I'm very sorry that Ihaven't been able to write anything for the last couple ofyears but, as you know, I made the decision to focus allmy energies on my family and my local work. It was adecision I do not regret. And it made me feel good toknow that you understood. However, I will tell you this,with the encouragement of a wonderful wife and three great kids, I will begin to write again whenever opportunities are present. (Some things just stay in yourblood!)
Searching the Scriptures has long enjoyed a good reputation among a lot of brethren. Its soundness has never been questioned. Its fairness has been one of itstrademarks. Words like "balance, " "even-handed, " and"reasonable" have often been used when others describe the Paper. I have never heard STS spoken of in the samederogatory spirit as some of the other papers. I think that says something. I think that says a lot.
In my opinion your editorials have been some of the best material available the last twenty years. Your ability to take a difficult subject or controversy andsimplify it for the common man has helped make Searching the Scriptures what it is. Frankly, there are times Iread after some writers and wonder if I'm the only fellow who can't understand what they are talking about. I doubt it.
I read again Solomon's words in Ecc. 12: 9 where he noted that he carefully "pondered, " "searched out, " and"arranged" the words he wanted to use. I know you canidentify with that task. Every writer can. And the reason it is so important to find just the right wordswhen writing is given in the next verse - "The Preacher sought to find delightful words and to write words oftruth correctly. " I believe Solomon is saying that a preacher's job (whether communicating orally or inwritten form) is to use words that are easy to grasp andreadily applied. Words that cannot be understood arenot "delightful" words. Thanks for speaking clearly,Dad. Thanks for your diligence in presenting the truthcorrectly. Thanks for writing to say something ratherthan just finding something to say. And thanks for thewarmth and humor you have added and allowed othersto add in this paper. It's one thing to present the truth. It's another to present the truth with a human touch.There are several men who seemingly don't know how to do that.
What I'm trying to say is that I believe you have donean excellent job with a very difficult assignment. Anyone who thinks editing a paper is an easy job hasobviously never done it. It takes a lot of patience, it takesa lot of wisdom, and it eventually takes its toll. Solomonwas right when he warned, "the writing of many booksis endless, and excessive devotion to books is wearyingto the body. " The same can be said for editing a paper.
I've noticed that what had been your labor of love forso long had become a labor of hardship. The time restraints, deadlines and work that went into STSbecame mentally and physically draining. The enthusiasm was gone. Maybe I'm off base with this observation but I felt you lost some of the spark for the Paper whenMom died. Sometimes I felt like Searching the Scriptures was as much a part of her as it was a part of you.And although the Paper has continued on since herdeath it has never been quite the same.
I have hoped for some time that you would let STS dierather than passing it on to another. Obviously, I madeit clear that I didn't want the pressures that accompanied the job. (I think a lot of people assumed you would eventually hand it down to me. They were wrong.Searching the Scriptures is not a family heirloom. Younever offered it and I never wanted it). I have also mademy feelings clear that it should not be given to anyoneelse. For one reason, you would always feel the weight of responsibility for everything that would happen inthe future. I know you. I know, because in many ways,I'm just like you. (Now there is a scary thought!)
I'm glad you have decided to let it die. Searching the Scriptures comes to an end at a time when it has a goodname and has meant so much to so many. The timing isright.
And... it wouldn't hurt you to cut back a little. (I'm treading softly here... ) I know that you will always beon the go as long as you live. Your preaching is muchneeded in meeting work where bland mediocrity hasoften taken the place of emotional exhortation. Yourwriting will continue to have an impact through yourrelation with Guardian of Truth. (I look for you to bring to that paper the same balance, simplicity and warmththat has been a trademark of STS). Your contributionwill only enhance and help G. O. T. But it will be good foryou to climb out from under some of the energy draining pressures and time-consuming demands that go withthe editor's chair. And you know, Dad, there are fiveprecious grand-kids that think you're the best thing tocome along since micro-wave popcorn. Maybe now you'll have the time to stay an extra day or spend an extramoment with them. That's certainly no criticism of the past. It's just a fact that you had to meet the deadlinesof the Paper. We all knew that and appreciated the waythat you faithfully honored your commitments. Butsometimes its good to experience a change of sceneryand gain a fresh direction. Enjoy.
I hope I haven't rambled too much. I love you, Dad,and want only what is best for you. You have asked formy opinion and I've given it the best I know how. I thinkyou have made a wise decision. Others may not agreebut, then again, its not their decision. Thanks for allowing me to have a part for all these years. Thanks foryour constant love and encouragement. And a special thanks for always being there when I needed you. MayGod bless you and Bobby in the days ahead with goodhealth, warm memories and many years of productivityin His service.
In appreciation for a job well done, Wilson
As parents, we never know what will be our children's lasting impressions of their early years. We strive toinstill values and ground them in truth and often it is the intangible which clings to the soul through life. Manythings today flood me with memories that to someone else would mean little. Such as artificial lures with triplehooks (you know, the kind that the tail wiggles whenreeled through the water). Brother "Uncle" Weldon Warnock borrowed my brand new one when I was a kid with my Dad on a meeting and caught a 5 lb Bass on thefirst cast; and Yoo-Hoo Chocolate drink - my great-grandfather used to buy them for us when we would visitthe store with him. Little things perhaps, but these memories will always be with me. Let me share anothermemory which to long time readers of Searching the Scriptures may have some meaning. A memory of ayoung boy trying his best not to fidget around while hisfather and mother talked with Brother and Sister H. E. Phillips in their Tampa, FL home. Searching the Scriptures was coming to Louisville, KY and into my life.
As with any small family run business, Searching the Scriptures became a focal point of our family. New termscame to have meaning; paste-up, galleys, bundles, andstencils. An opportunity to earn a little extra money byaddressing the papers, doing some typing, or compilingbound volumes became available. There were trips toBerne, IN to the printer to pick up the papers eachmonth. These trips were special times with Dad (exceptfor the loading and unloading). Once when our stationwagon was not big enough to carry a special issue werented a U-Haul van only to have it break down ten milesnorth of Louisville on the way home. You know, infrustrating situations you find out what kind of person one's father really is. Dad taught me so many thingsthrough Searching the Scriptures business. It was onthese trips to Berne that Dad taught me to drive. The work taught me about deadlines. It taught me the valueand potency of the printed word. The few articles I've had printed in Searching the Scriptures, including thisone, have left me each time with the same feeling aswhen Dad pulled the car over and gave me a chance tolearn. So to all the subscribers during the years, thankyou for your patience with a father instructing his son inthe lesson that a thing is not always as easy as it looks.
Being an editor is not an easy thing. It can be consuming. It consumes your time, your family, your finances,your peace of mind, and at times your common sense. Rocket engines can operate in a vacuum, publications cannot. Searching the Scriptures revolved around myDad's desk, our kitchen table, and sometimes the pingpong table in the basement where bound volumes werecompiled. I grew up thinking phone calls late at night (J.
T. Smith, are you listening?) and during supper, always during supper, were normal. You don't know how many times Dad missed events when a deadline had tobe met. So before you are too quick to react to an articleremember the legitimate sacrifices these men make inorder to write what they believe. Sometimes I thinkpeople forget about that. From our family's perspective,as I'm sure it was with the Phillips family, it has been a labor of love. At times the paper was treated almost asa member of the family; one with which I admit tohaving some sibling rivalry. But from an early age, itgave me a sense of involvement in a special work. No onehas benefited any more from Searching the Scripturesover the last twenty years than I. It has served me as asource of information about other Christians in other places, as a source of study material, and as a link withhome while away in college.
Dad has always said that all papers have a life.Things change. There is no denying it. For personalcomputers now, one can buy a multimedia cassette diskcontaining 16 different Bible versions, 2 Bible dictionaries, Strong's Concordance, 2 full sets of commentaries,and Greek and Hebrew texts all cross-indexed for $300$500. All this placed on an object the size of a cool-whipbowl lid. It is amazing. I do not know the future for our "brotherhood" papers. They may change and avail themselves of new technology or they may not, but I do knowthis; that the need for a sound, balanced approach toscripture will still be present. No doubt others willcontinue working to fulfill that need. So whether they're published on an electronic bulletin board medium orprinted and addressed by hand, the help will be there forus to use in our searching of the scriptures.
I had been a reader of Searching the Scriptures manyyears before Connie and I were married and had alwaysloved and appreciated its' stand for truth. However,after I came to work in the office seven years ago, myinterest increased considerably. As I worked with subscriptions, I came to think of each of you readers asfriends. It was delightful to be able to meet some of you in our gospel meetings or at lectures. The subs then hadfaces. I will miss each of you. I have enjoyed working with Joan Rader, Jane Ashbrook and Karen Arbucklethese past seven years. A grateful "thanks" to each.
So it is with mixed emotions that I view the closing ofthe paper. The very thought brings me to tears because Iknow the deep love Connie has for it. I have seen himagonize over various issues, always desiring, first andforemost, that God be pleased with his decisions. I haveseen him fearful that he was not giving his very best to both his readers and to his preaching. So it will besomewhat a relief to have the deadlines removed so he can devote all of his time to his first love, preaching the Word, (and perhaps seeing our children and grandchildren a little more often).
It has been said that all good things have to come toan end. Whether or not this axiom is absolutely true, itis certainly true of many things. I believe that Searching the Scriptures has been a good thing and now it isgoing to come to an end. However, the impact it has had for good will continue on.
About The paper And Its Editor
According to my records, Connie W. Adams became the editor of Searching the Scriptures in June, 1973.The paper began in January, 1960 by two highly respected gospel preachers, James P. Miller and H. E.Phillips. Two years later brother Phillips became thesole editor until Connie W. Adams purchased the paperfrom him in 1973.
It is my considered opinion that the paper has had aterrific influence for good over the years. Like all humanendeavors, no claim has ever been made for perfection.But it has been steady, fair, kind, but never soft indealing with issues of the day. It has reached a lot ofpeople all over the world for good.
Connie, my brother in Christ and in the flesh, hasdone an excellent job in the editorial chair. I write thisto some degree with prejudice. He has kept thingssteady even during some times of turbulence and unrestamong the brethren. His obvious efforts to exerciserestraint under pressure is most admirable. And I do admire my brother in so many ways but especially forwhat I know him to be as a faithful gospel preacher anda Christian who has always been dedicated to serving the Lord. Compromise of truth has never entered hismind. This is very apparent in his editorship of Searching the Scriptures as well as his pulpit and Bible class work.
I want to take this means, as the paper is phased out,to express my appreciation, not only for Connie andSearching the Scriptures but also for having been extended the privilege of writing articles in this journalfrom time to time. Although I have not been as prolifica writer as some others, I consider it a signal honor tohave been given this opportunity.
Congratulations, Connie, for a job well done and may God bless you in your future journalistic efforts in adifferent area. I wish to conclude my remarks with a passage from the masthead of Searching the Scriptures.
"Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think yehave eternal life; and they are they which testify of me"(John 5: 39).
A Stalwart Paper For Truth
Religious journals can have a tremendous import forgood or evil. Their influence toward the development ofwholesome or unwholesome attitudes among brethrenis unquestionable and undeniable. Doctrinal and moralpositions are embraced and espoused by many individual Christians and multiple congregations becauseof the power of the printed page.
For example, the state of Kentucky (my home state)was split several years ago almost right down the middleof the state over the divisive issues of the missionarysociety and instrumental music in worship. Churches ofChrist in western Kentucky resisted, by and large,these human innovations because of the influence of the Gospel Advocate under the capable and courageousleadership of David Lipscomb. However, eastern Kentucky was another story. Isaac Errett and his ChristianStandard journal, published in Cincinnati, Ohio, captured the minds of most of the brethren in that part ofthe state. They became known as the Christian Church.Some kept the name, "Church of Christ. "
This issue of Searching the Scriptures brings to aclose the publication of a paper with a long and lustrouspast. Only Almighty God could know the good that STShas contributed to the lives of thousands of people sincethe day of its inception. Having begun in Florida underthe dedicated editorship of H. E. Phillips, it was latersold to Connie Adams, where he, as editor, has maintained the same devotion and commitment to truth and right as its founder. These men are to be highly commended for their tireless efforts in disseminating theword of God through religious journalism. They used atool, which, in the wrong hands, could be lethal, spiritually, but they took it and used it for the Cause of truth.It has had a great positive influence in the brotherhood.
Searching the Scriptures has been a balanced paper,free of hobbyism, radicalism and liberalism. It has notbeen a one-issue paper that sounded like a brokenrecord every time you read it. Neither did it have an axto grind or a vendetta to carry out toward other brethren. The paper had one main objective and that was toteach the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.
The militancy of STS has been appreciated by a great number of brethren, myself included, because sin anderror cannot be dealt with, using a powder puff. Thesword of the Spirit is our offensive weapon and writersfor this paper have used it effectively. The editorialpolicy has reflected the spirit of New Testament preachers who manifested the spirit of the greatest preacher ofall time, Jesus Christ. Brethren, a paper that our Lordcould not fully express himself in has no biblical justification for its existence. Thank God STS did not adoptthe Robert Schuller approach for its editorial policy.
It has been my privilege to have been a Staff Writerfor STS since back in the 70's. Beginning with theJanuary, 1985 issue I have written the Question Column under the caption, "What Saith the Scripture"? Iexpress my appreciation to all those who have sent theirquestions for my consideration.
We close our few remarks by stating our sincerethanks to H. E. Phillips and Connie Adams for theirwork of faith and labor of love in keeping an excellentmonthly religious paper coming into our homes for lo,these many years. It will be missed!
Asleep With Dignity At Age 33
In the fall of 1959, fifteen brethren, including fivepreachers, met in Orlando, Florida, and with brethren
H. E. Phillips and James P. Miller as co-editors, Searching the Scriptures was given birth.
On November 20, 1959,, my beloved friend, JimMiller, wrote asking that I assist in getting this paper"off the ground" and write for it. I have paid subscriptions for someone else with every issue of the paper,from the first issue to this the last issue. My first article was in the second issue and I count it an honor that Connie Adams has ask that I submit an article for this the final issue.
In late December, 1959, as brother H. E. Phillips wasputting the first issue of the paper together, his belovedwife was involved in a serious automobile accident in South Georgia and was confined to the hospital inTallahassee, Florida, for several weeks. It was fromhere that Elwood put together the first issue of Searching the Scriptures.
From January, 1960, until May, 1973, Elwood editedthe paper. After two years, arrangements were made forfinancial and editorial responsibility to rest solely withElwood. However, James P. Miller was listed as coeditor for the first ten years. The heavy load of editorshipand financial responsibility took its toll on Elwood'shealth and he edited his last issue in May, 1973.
During the Florida College Lectures of 1973, he toldme of the verbal agreement he had with Connie Adamsto give him the first opportunity at Searching the Scriptures should he ever decide to give it up. Elwoodasked me to ask Connie to contact him while he was in Tampa for the lectures, which I did. Later that spring,Connie asked me to go with him to Atlanta to meet Elwood in order to work out arrangements for thetransfer of the paper to him, which I did.
Beginning in June, 1973, Connie began to edit thepaper and has until now. Again the editorship andfinancial responsibility has taken its toll and Connie hasdecided to close the paper down. While I do not intendto speak for anyone else, those who have been directlyinvolved with the paper over the years would rather see it close down than to see it fall into the hands of those who would take it beyond "that which is written" (1 Cor.
4: 6) and "the doctrine of Christ" (2 John 9-11). Thus,after 33 years of publication, Searching the Scripturesis being put to bed to sleep with the same dignity thathas characterized her for all these years.
While Elwood edited the paper, he was assisted bymany whose names have never seen the light of print.Among those are special people like his beloved wifePolly, his daughters, Carolyn, Juanita and Elaine.
When Connie became editor, his Bobbie was his rightarm, until her death, putting the paper in the black. Atthis time Joan Rader took the enormous task of sorting out what only Bobbie knew and helped Connie keep thepaper doing. During the last several years DonnieRader has done an outstanding job of editing the paperand giving Connie some relief from time to time. Connie has been blessed with another Bobby to share his lifeand help him in his life's work.
When Jim Miller wrote me that he and brother H. E. Phillips were starting Searching the Scriptures, I had no idea who H. E. Phillips was. Throughout the years ofour association together, I have come to regard Pollyand Elwood as two of the finest Christians I have ever known. To me they are second parents.
At the time Searching the Scriptures was started Connie and I already knew each other. Over the yearsour relationship has developed to the point, I regard himas the brother I never had. Together we have traveled,visited, preached, debated and cried in times of sorrow.Many have not understood our relationship. But we have always understood each other. That is all thatmatters. No one will talk about him in my presence andget away with it!
Elwood and Connie, thanks for the opportunity you have given me to teach the truth through the pages ofSearching the Scriptures. Brethren owe a debt of gratitude to you for giving us a paper that has been true tothe Book, fought the good fight of faith with dignity and honor. May God keep you and yours and give you thecrown at the end of the road.
"Search The Scriptures"
"Search the scriptures... " (Jno. 5: 39) - in threewords, Jesus gives the key which would solve all of ourprob-lems and reveal all of our opportunities.
The Jews failed to identify the Christ, and rejectedhim as their king, because they failed to search thescriptures. When the Jews required a sign (cf. 1 Cor.1; 22), the only sign given to them was "the sign of theprophet Jonas" (Mt. 12: 39ff). Jesus told Jerusalem thatit would not be prepared for its impending destruction"because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation" (Lk. 19: 44).
Searching the scriptures is so indispensable to the truth that Abraham said concerning the five brethren ofthe rich man, "If they hear not Moses and the prophets,neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from thedead" (Lk. 16: 31). And I am persuaded that in our time,under "a better covenant" (Heb. 8: 6), that searchinthe scriptures is still the key to all of our religious
problems and opportunities.
*********
No matter what the Bible says about creation, the plan of salvation, the identity/mission/organization/work/worship of the church, marriage/divorce/remarriage, orany other subject - if you cannot persuade people to"search the scriptures, " they will never arrive at oraccept the truth on any of these subjects.
If you want to carry on a spiritual conversation withone who is not a member of the Lord's church, or withone who is a member, the first question to be resolved is,"What shall we use for a source of knowledge andauthority?" Until this matter is resolved, you may aswell save your breath. Or use the time in an effort to
establish the all-sufficiency of the scriptures.
*
**
We sometimes forget the different attitudes towardthe truth as set forth in "the parable of the sower" (Mt.
13: 18ff). Every effort to sow the seed of the kingdom willfind its counterpart somewhere in this parable. In onechapter (Acts 17), we can find three different attitudestoward the truth.
At Thessalonica (vv. 1-9), Paul "reasoned with them out of the scriptures" (v. 2). And in spite ofhostility and persecution from the unbelieving Jews,many received the truth "not as the word of men, butas it is in truth, the word of God, which effectuallyworketh also in you that believe" (1 Thes. 2: 13).
At Berea (vv. 10-14), we find a people "more noblethan those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so" (v. 11).And, as is always the case where you find such anattitude, "Therefore many of them believe... " (v. 12).
At Athens (vv. 15-34), Paul found a general attitudeof indifference among the philosophers, and among "allthe Athenians and strangers" (v. 21). And in my own experience, this latter attitude is the most difficult withwhich to deal. Generally, it is seed down "by the way
side" (Lk. 8: 12).
**
It is imperative that the seed sown be incorruptible (1Pet. 1: 23). It is also necessary that the one sowinthe seed be faithful in such efforts (Jno. 4: 35-38). Butwe should not become discouraged, either with the seed or our own faithful efforts, if the results are notas they
could and should be. For the primary hindrance tofruitful labors in an affluent and immoral society is thefailure of hearers (in or out of the church), to "search the scriptures. "Evidence to support this conclusion is found in the Philippines, Africa, India, Europe, and other parts ofthe world. The difference between being converted ornot being converted is the difference between searchingor not searching the scriptures.Brethren, even if your efforts appear to be fruitless,don't give up (Gal. 6: 9). Even if your work suffers loss, don't look for another work or another vineyard (1 Cor.
3: 13-15). And even if people reject the scriptures,they are rejecting God, the truth, and eternal life, not you (1 Sam. 8: 7; Acts 13: 46).I personally appreciate the efforts of those who haveused the publication called Searching the Scriptures to provoke people to do just that - "search the scriptures." I appreciate the opportunity which it has afforded meto tell of the "simplicity which is in Christ" (2 Cor. 11:3).Let us not cease to "search the scriptures" or encourage others to do the same, for the time will come whenthose same scriptures will search our hearts in judgment.
With the rest of the readers of this journal, I view with adegree of sadness the publication of this final issue ofSearching the Scriptures. For thirty-three years, thispaper has been used in service to Christ Jesus our Lord. Its garments have not been stained by the sin of promoting and defending false doctrine; the reputations of itseditors have not been marred by immoralities. It has anunblemished record in its propagation and defense ofthe truth, which deserves our laurels of commendation.The names of both H. E. Phillips and Connie W.Adams were respected and loved when I began preaching the gospel in 1966. They had already earned therespect of brethren who loved and obeyed the truth. I have been privileged to get to know both of these brethren personally and have learned to love them forthe truth's sake. The bond we share in Christ has been precious to me.Inasmuch as brother Adams has decided to discontinue publishing Searching the Scriptures, I am delighted that he has chosen Guardian of Truth to fulfill his obligations to his readers to provide them a paper for the full term of their subscription. Through the years,Searching the Scriptures and Guardian of Truth (formerly known as Truth Magazine and Gospel Guardian)have shared a common commitment to the same principles of truth. Before becoming editor of Searching the Scriptures, brother Adams was a staff writer for Truth Magazine during the years it was edited by my bother,Cecil Willis. He was added as an Associate Editor in January 1966 and served until June 1973 when hebecame editor of Searching the Scriptures. Announcing Connie's leaving, Cecil wrote of brother Phillip's selection of Connie as editor saying, "I don't know whom theymight have chosen that would have been better qualified in ability and disposition than Connie Adams.... Connie Adams has been one to whom I very frequently turned for advice regarding some of the difficult decisions which every editor must make. " He continued toexplain that Connie had been a fellow soldier in everyaspect of their work.Now brother Adams' work through Searching the Scriptures is over. He has done his work well, asevidenced by the high regard in which this paper is heldamong brethren. We join the host of brethren whocongratulate him and his staff of writers for a job welldone. But brother Adams will continue to write. We are delighted to announce the brother Adams has agreed toresume his position as Associate Editor of Guardian ofTruth. Those of you who have appreciated the goodwork he has done through the years with Searching the Scriptures will want to know that you can continue toread his good writings in Guardian of Truth. Therefore, as we fill the subscription obligations of Searching the Scriptures, we hope to introduce you to another paper which you will learn to appreciate just as much as youhave Searching the Scriptures. As editor of Guardian of Truth, I welcome each person who is a new subscriber to Guardian of Truth.We hope to continue to serve you in the same exemplarymanner as you have grown accustomed to in the past. We welcome your comments, news items, preacherneeded ads, church ads, etc. We desire to serve God's people; we have no desire to be served, become a lordover God's people, or otherwise harm the body of Christ.We welcome you to our mailing list.The first issue of February will be a special issue ofGuardian Truth edited by Connie Adams. Its theme is: "In Remembrance of These Things. " Many of the writers of this special issue will be men whom you have beenaccustomed to reading in Searching the Scriptures. You won't want to miss an issue.
(Continued from page 266 H. E. Phillips)
W. Adams the fidelity to divine truth and the ability andexperience to fill the editor's chair. I believed he would doso with a firm resolve to hold this paper to its originalpurpose of preaching and defending the gospel. Thisprompted me to sell the paper to him.
Brother Adams has justified the faith and confidenceI had in him by his diligent work as editor of SearchingThe Scriptures for nearly twenty years. I do not knowanyone who could have done a better job as editor thanConnie W. Adams.
Brother Adam has honored me upon several occasions.He offered me the front page of the paper to writewhatever I thought was necessary, for as long as I wantedto write. That has been gratifying to me and I express tohim my sincere appreciation.
I do not remember that Connie Adams and I ever had an angry word or a moment of dissension through theyears. We have spent many hours talking together aboutthe paper and various issues that confronted the church.We have exchanged many letters and talked many timesby phone. I understand his emotions as he prepares to layto rest this paper that has claimed so many hours of hisvaluable time and demanded such a sacrifice of labor and funds. Editorial and publication deadlines are a pressurethat only those who have done it understand. I express toConnie my personal appreciation for his work well done.Only eternity will reveal the good he has accomplished bythe printed page over these twenty years.
The Editorial Policy From The Beginning
The opening words of the editorial in that first issuewere: "Truth and truth alone can make men free. Our Master taught this lesson to the Jews that believed onhim in John 8: 32. With this issue of SEARCHING THE SCRIP-TURES you hold in your hand a new paper thatis born to do just that. The truth has a right to be heardfrom the pulpit, over the airlanes, on the television screen, and on the printed page. This is one purpose ofSEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES. " "... The pages ofSEARCHING THE SCRIPTURES will be open to men ofgood faith. We will allow anyone who has somethingworthwhile to say to speak his mind. We will not,however, allow propagandists to sow seeds of discord.This paper will not be devoted to unfair controversyand personal sarcasm... "
The last paragraph of this editorial says in part: "Wehave no policy but to be scriptural, fair, sincere, andfaithful in our work as editors of this paper. We knownothing more that could be asked of us in presenting thispaper for your edification... "
In the editorial of August, 1972, page 115 we wrote:"From the beginning we have earnestly sought to use the printed page to study the word of God with all who willre ad and study with us. We belong to no man or group. Westrive to serve no special human interest. We are not forsale to any man for any price, because our own salvationand the salvation of others is in the balance. "
This policy has been followed to the present time.Brother Adams has diligently pursued the principles oftruth and fairness in his labors as editor, as we endeavored to do from the beginning. He has admirably steered this publication in the direction we believe it should go.
The Honorable Demise Of SearchingThe Scriptures
About a year ago brother Adams asked me to consider with him the destiny of Searching The Scriptures. He felt that he was unable to continue much longer with the paper because of his health and pressing deadlines. In the environment of deep emotions weconsidered the options that were available. With tearsand fervent prayers to God, he decided to lay this laborof love to rest and leave its influence enshrined in the archives of history. Undoubtedly generations yet unborn will read its pages when we sleep with our fathers.As we are borne along by the tide of time towardeternity, we shall live in peace with the knowledge thatno man or group can destroy its influence and use thename to propagate error.
I concur with his decision to bring this faithful laborof thirty-three years to a close with the December, 1992issue. I empathize with him in his judgment and decision to end the paper; and commend his sense ofresponsibility to the readers of this religious magazineover the course of its history from 1960. It was. not aneasy decision to make. A combination of factors mergeto make the decision essential.
In my editorial for the final issue of Searching TheScriptures before turning the helm to brother ConnieAdams, I described some brief facts that led to the birthof Searching The Scriptures. As I now look back to thebeginning, I see in the heart of a young man a yearningfor the victory of truth over error and the determination to spread the gospel of Christ to as many aspossible. My heart remains dedicated to that samegospel of Christ, but the body cannot do what it oncedid.
For my closing words in this final article in Searching The Scriptures, to the editor, all writers for thisnoble journal and to the readers, I adopt the inspiredwords of the apostle Paul: "And now, brethren, Icommend you to God, and to the word of his grace,which is able to build you up, and to give you aninheritance among all them which are sanctified" (Acts
20: 32). Amen.
Index for Volume XXXIII
A BURNING FIRE — Jim Deason
'Seeking Outside Support' 79 Participation Principle, The 37 Sending Outside Support 104 Things the Lord Hates 249
A REVIEW OF JERRY BASSETTS BOOK — Donnie V. Rader
1 Cor 7 15 — Is the Believer Free to Remarry' 53 Marriage, the Bond, and Adultery 30 May the Guilty Party Remarry' Divorce, Remarriage, and Fellowship 101 Must Those Who Have Committed Adultery Separate' 77 What Law' 6
ACCEPTED OF HIM — Donnie V. Rader
'Searching the Scriptures' An Overview 269 Couple of Thoughts, A 220 No Repentance — No Regret 126 Proper Perspective, The 244
BRASS TACKS — Gary Henry
Is the Eldership Any More Than a 'Deliberative Assembly?' 108